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Schools Building Projects Status

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 11 June 2013

Tuesday, 11 June 2013

Questions (264)

Jonathan O'Brien

Question:

264. Deputy Jonathan O'Brien asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he will provide details of his Department’s assessment of the suitability of the site proposed for a school (details supplied) in County Wicklow. [27002/13]

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Written answers

As the Deputy will be aware, my Department has been seeking to acquire land for the delivery of school accommodation for the provision of both a Gaelscoil and Gaelcoláiste in Arklow for some time. My officials have worked with officials from Wicklow County Council in identifying suitable land in Arklow. Wicklow County Council identified a number of potentially suitable sites which were jointly assessed. A number of options were examined. However, due to unsuitability, lack of access, or the fact that the sites could not be acquired for market rates, various potential sites were ruled out. I can confirm that a suitable site, which meets my Department's requirements as set out in its Technical Guidance Documents, was identified. These guidelines set out a range of issues to be considered in assessing sites such as ground conditions, site size, access etc. The site identified is zoned for education provision under Arklow Town and Environs Development Plan 2011 – 2017. Negotiations were conducted with the landowner and agreement has been reached. The development of the school campus will include the delivery of two school buildings and the development of the required infrastructure. This will allow both schools to leave their current temporary locations and move to a permanent site.

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